Pentagon investigates Democratic senator for telling troops to refuse 'illegal orders'

Scott Neuman / NPR

 

The Pentagon said Monday it is investigating Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, a retired U.S. Navy fighter pilot and NASA astronaut, for possible violations of military law after he appeared in a video with other Democratic lawmakers urging active duty military and intelligence personnel to refuse "illegal orders."

In the case of Kelly, the Pentagon put out a statement saying that it had "received serious allegations of misconduct against Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.)," and that "a thorough review of these allegations has been initiated to determine further actions, which may include recall to active duty for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures."

The statement, posted on X, said: "This matter will be handled in compliance with military law, ensuring due process and impartiality. Further official comments will be limited, to preserve the integrity of the proceedings.'  

The move comes as the Trump administration faces legal questions surrounding its deployment of National Guard troops to U.S. cities and deadly...Read more here.